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Technics or Thorens, need suggestions

I've been looking to get into Analog for quite some time now. So long that I've been collecting Vinyl with a dream of finally getting a nice TT.  Analog is an uncharted territory for me. I've been researching on my free time and have come up with a couple possibilities. 

Thorens TD 1600 
Technics 1200G

Budget is around 3-5k without a cartridge . I have Mcintosh C2600 which I intend to use for phono. 

I like the aesthetics of Thorens much more than Technics. 

My research showed that Technics is a superb TT for the price. How do these two compare? 

my systems: Mcintosh MC452/C2600/Sonus Faber Elipsa
                     mastersound 845 integrated/ diapason adamantes 3
ei001h
alucard19
367 posts
 
If you are looking for a wood TT that is belt drive, look at the Acoustic Solid, Solid Wood turntable. Wood  or the Wood Referenz, Wood Referenz
sandthemall
544 posts
 
I have the 1200G.  It is amazing.  The aesthetics are just a little too familiar to all of us but, as an industrial designer, I do have to say that it is a classic style and will always be.  For what it's worth I was looking to get a better looking TT...but since buying it, I have pretty much upgraded all my components and need to admit that it still looks better than anything on the rack.

You appreciate all the love that went into the 1200G everyday you use it.
The arm and gimbal are stellar...it's a medium mass arm that will work with so many carts. almost 2 years on mine without a hickup.

You won't be sorry with a 1200G.  Too bad you can't listen to the Thorens and the Technics side by side.  I'll bet the Technics will put it to shame.
 

oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
I’ve used BOTH for 50 years. Mcintosh and Thoren. Thoren has some very nice units. If you want to spend  money, Thoren can relieve you of some.. Lots of goodies for most  Thorens. The vintage stuff is just wonderful, and hold it’s value. Technics is a good unit. Just not a Thoren, as simple as they are..very easy to work on and PLINTH ready.

Mac has  great phono sections, in all their units. You can tweak from there. They are known for their dual phono, MM, MC, adjustable gain (the newer).  With an Amprex or Tellie valve swap, anything but the original, valves, you’ll be sittin’ in tall cotton.. I have 50 years of Mac Preamps, C8,11,20,22,2500, MX110,120,121. Valve or SS, all have good phono sections.

Time to go feed the chickens.

Regards

audioguy85's avatar
audioguy85
2,029 posts
 
I'll take the thorens after reading that article/ review. 
glupson
7,842 posts
 
oldhvymec,

"I’ve used BOTH for 50 years. Mcintosh and Thoren. Thoren has some very nice units."
I read somewhere, a few years ago, about Thorens basically being a different company than 50 years ago. Not that any company is the same.

In any case, and you surely know better than me if that is the case, old Thorenses and new Thorenses may not be same kinds of animals. I have no experience with new ones, but old ones were something to admire. That TD 126 Mk III, used, would be a serious contender if I had posted the question from the original post. Now, could new ones hold a candle to those old ones? If you have any experience, could you elaborate? I am interested.
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